True Texas Tour

Discover the legendary spirit of the Lone Star State on this True Texas Tour, a 10-day journey through Fort Worth, Austin, New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, San Antonio, and Centerville. Begin in the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, where cowboy heritage and live Texas rodeo traditions come to life. Stroll the historic streets of Austin and enjoy a refreshing float in a classic Texas river in the Hill Country. Wander the charming streets of Fredericksburg, enjoy award-winning Texas wine, and soak up live music beneath the oak trees in Luckenbach. Visit Mission San José, the Alamo, and vibrant markets in San Antonio. End your journey on a working Texas ranch, riding horses, savoring a chuckwagon dinner, and learning from real farmers and ranchers. With the Gardners as your hosts, you’ll experience authentic Texas hospitality, unforgettable landscapes, and the true heart of Texas culture. 

Come see what makes Texas truly one of a kind!

Day One: Welcome to Texas, Y’all!

Your Texas-sized adventure begins the moment you land at DFW, where your hosts greet you with warm Texas hospitality. After a short drive, settle into your cozy Fort Worth BnB, the perfect spot to rest and ease into Lone Star living. That evening, enjoy a classic Texas barbecue dinner under open skies, surrounded by the smell of slow-smoked brisket and mesquite. It’s a relaxed, flavorful start to your week in the heart of Texas.

Day Two: The Fort Worth Stockyards

Start your day with a hearty home-cooked breakfast before heading into the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, the heart of early Texas cowboy culture. Watch the late-morning cattle drive, browse local shops for cowboy hats and boots, and enjoy a classic outdoor lunch. That evening, savor flavorful Tex-Mex on a lively patio before experiencing a true Texas rodeo or the world’s largest honky-tonk. It’s a full day of Western charm and unforgettable Fort Worth energy.

Day Three: Journey to the Texas Hill Country

After breakfast, travel south toward the scenic Texas Hill Country, passing the grand Texas State Capitol in Austin. Stop for legendary Texas barbecue, then enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Colorado River near Lady Bird Lake. By afternoon, settle into your comfortable New Braunfels BnB tucked among rolling hills. End the day with a warm, home-cooked supper and a quiet evening on the porch, soaking in the calm beauty of Hill Country life.

Day Four: Texas River Floating & Gruene Hall Dancing

Begin with breakfast before heading out for a classic Texas river float, drifting through cool spring-fed waters and Hill Country scenery. Enjoy a riverside lunch and friendly conversation with fellow Texans along the way. After returning for a rest at the BnB, explore historic Gruene, browsing shops and enjoying dinner by the river. Cap off the night at iconic Gruene Hall, where live music and dancing make this a true Texas experience.

Day Five: Texas Wine Country

Travel to charming Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage and Hill Country warmth. Stroll past historic buildings, unique shops, and friendly cafés before visiting an award-winning Texas wine tasting room. After lunch, continue to a scenic vineyard set among rolling hills for an afternoon of relaxation and flavor. Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner, then end the day in Luckenbach, where live music drifts beneath the Texas stars.

Day Six: “Remember the Alamo”

Head to San Antonio for a day filled with Texas history and culture. Explore Mission San José, then enjoy vibrant Tex-Mex cuisine at a beloved local spot. Wander through the colorful Mexican Market before visiting San Fernando Cathedral and the historic Alamo, where Texas independence began. If time allows, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the famed River Walk. Return to New Braunfels for dinner and a relaxing evening at your BnB.

Day Seven: Journey to Cowboy Country

After breakfast, travel toward Centerville, stopping in Taylor for award-winning Texas barbecue served with small-town charm. Arrive at the peaceful Gardner Farm & Ranch, where your countryside BnB awaits among wide-open Texas landscapes. Settle in before enjoying a hearty home-cooked dinner. As evening falls, gather around a crackling fire beneath the vast Texas sky, sharing stories and taking in the quiet beauty of true ranch country.

Day Eight: The Cowboy Way in Leon County & Chuckwagon Dinner

Start with breakfast, then visit the “Round Table” at the local store—a gathering of seasoned Texas ranchers sharing stories and tradition. Explore the ranch on 4-wheelers, check cattle, and enjoy lunch at a famous smokehouse. Spend the afternoon horseback riding or relaxing before a memorable chuckwagon dinner cooked fireside with cowboy storytelling and poetry. Adventurers may join an optional hog hunt to end an unforgettable Texas day.

Day Nine: Authentic Texas Ranching & Famous Steakhouse Dinner

After a country breakfast, spend the day experiencing authentic Texas ranch life—feeding animals, fixing fences, or helping with daily work. On Sundays, visit the welcoming Cowboy Church, a beloved local tradition. Enjoy hearty comfort food for lunch before visiting another farmer or rancher proud to share their way of life. End the day with dinner at a legendary Texas steakhouse, then relax at the BnB beneath quiet country skies.

Day Ten: Farewell, Y’all

Enjoy a slow Texas morning before your departure, soaking in the final moments of small-town Texas charm. When it's time, your host will escort you directly to the airport, arriving 3–4 hours early to ensure a smooth check-in, security, and customs experience. With souvenirs packed and memories made, you’ll head home carrying the warmth, flavor, and hospitality of the True Texas Tour. Safe travels, and thank you for exploring Texas with us!

Included

• Professional Guides*
• All Transportation*
• Accommodations at BnB*
• Breakfasts (9), Lunch (9) & Dinners (9)
• Dine at some of Texas’ Most Famous Joints
• Two Nights in Cowtown (Fort Worth)
• Four Nights in the Cultural New Braunfels
• Three Nights in Laid-Back Centerville
• Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards
• Watch a Cattle Drive in the Stockyards*
• Shop for Cowboy Boots & a Cowboy Hat
• Watch a Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum
• Visit the World’s Largest Honky-Tonk
• See the State Capitol in Austin
• Take a Stroll by the Colorado River in Austin
• Float a Texas River*
• Explore Historic Gruene, Texas
• Dance at the Oldest Dance Hall in Texas
• Walking Tour of Fredericksburg
• A Vineyard Tour & Two Wine Tastings*
• Enjoy Live Music in Historic Luckenbach
• Visit Mission San José
• Visit San Fernando Cathedral
• Visit the Alamo
• Visit Multiple Live Music Venues
• Multiple Evenings under the Texas Stars
• Join a Daily Gathering at the “Round Table”
• Ride 4-Wheelers on a Farm & Ranch
• Experience Life on a Farm & Ranch*
• Ride Horses on a Ranch*
• Visit a Local Farmer/Rancher to Learn From
• Chuckwagon Dinner under the Stars
• Visit a Real Cowboy Church*
• Go Hunting / Shoot Guns*
• Professional Photography + Photos*
• Detailed Itinerary & Tour Packet
• Seasonal Packing List
• Emergency Support

Not Included

• Airfare
• Visa (if necessary)
• Alcoholic Drinks
• Tips (Guides, Drivers, etc)

More Information

• A star next to items under INCLUDED note that more information can be found in the WHAT TO EXPECT section.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TOUR

On this True Texas Tour, you’ll start your journey with a warm welcome at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and wrap things up at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport or the George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. From the moment you arrive to the moment you head home, we’ve got everything covered—your transportation, accommodations, private tours and experiences, and meals have all been thoughtfully arranged and taken care of by your personal Gardner Tours guide. Your guide will be by your side the whole way, sharing stories, history, and local insight to give you a genuine taste of Texas—from cowboy culture to small-town charm. All we ask is that you kick back, soak it all in, and enjoy yourself. And if plans happen to shift a bit along the way, don’t worry—our guides are seasoned pros who’ll handle any bumps in the road with calm and care, making sure you’re always well looked after and getting the authentic Texas experience you came for.

Your Tour Guides

Our guides are not only knowledgeable in the culture and region—they are dedicated hosts committed to serving you throughout your entire journey. From the moment your day begins to the time you return to your BnB each night, they are there to ensure your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. You’ll have the freedom to take the tour at your own pace—whether that means savoring every bite of a meal, soaking in a scenic view, or asking as many questions as your curiosity allows. Whatever you need, your guide will be there to accommodate, assist, and make sure every moment of your trip feels seamless, personal, and warmly cared for.

Texas Tour Transportation & Time on the Road

On any of our Texas Tours, you’ll travel in comfort in a private vehicle reserved just for your group—no strangers, no crowded shuttles. Our vehicles are spacious, clean, and equipped to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Your pace is our pace, and we’re happy to slow down, speed up, or take that scenic detour if it suits you. While there may be a day or two with longer stretches on the road (usually no more than three hours total in a day), we make frequent, thoughtful stops to stretch, explore, and enjoy the sights and tastes that make Texas special. Whether it’s pulling over at a roadside BBQ joint, browsing a small-town antique shop, or snapping a photo of longhorns in the pasture, we make sure the journey is just as memorable as the destination. With your friendly local guide behind the wheel, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and soak up the Texas scenery.

Texas Tour Accommodations

During your stay in the Lone Star State, you’ll be settling into cozy, locally-owned bed and breakfasts where charm and warm hospitality are just part of the package. These handpicked Texas BnBs often come with a front porch made for sittin’, a swing or rocker to unwind in, and homey touches like antique furnishings, hand-stitched quilts, and fresh-brewed coffee in the morning. Most rooms comfortably sleep two guests, but if you’d like to bunk up with your travel partners (up to three folks per room), just let us know in your booking notes—we’re happy to make arrangements so y’all feel right at home.

The Fort Worth Stockyards Cattle Drive

The Fort Worth Stockyards Cattle Drive is a twice-daily demonstration that brings Texas cowboy culture to life in the middle of the bustling streets of the Stockyards. Watch real cowhands guide Texas longhorns down Exchange Avenue, all while enjoying the sights, sounds, and historic charm of this iconic district. This experience is designed for spectators—perfect for photos, stories, and soaking up the spirit of the Old West. Arrive early for the best views, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy the authentic hospitality and historic cowboy atmosphere that make Fort Worth the epicenter of Texas cowboy culture.

Floating a Texas River

In the Texas Hill Country, floating a river is a time-honored summer tradition—and we’ll show you why it’s such a beloved way to cool off. Whether you’re drifting down the Guadalupe or splashing in the spring-fed Comal at Prince Solms Park, you’re in for a memorable experience. Now, that said, Texas summers can be hot and dry, and every once in a while, we find ourselves in a bit of a drought. When that happens, the river waters can run a little lower than usual. That just means your float might be a bit slower-paced, with a few more rocks peeking out to navigate around. But don’t fret—there’ll still be plenty of water to dip your toes in, cool off, and soak up that Hill Country sunshine. We’ll make sure you’re well-prepared and have everything you need for a safe, easy-going time on the river. Whether it’s a lazy float or a lively one, the Texas rivers are always worth the ride.

Wine Country in Texas

Texas Wine Country sure has a charm all its own, and we’re excited to share it with you—whether you come during harvest season or not. Now, just so you know, the grape harvest here usually takes place during the hottest part of the year—from late July through August and sometimes stretching into early September. If your visit falls outside of those months, the vines may be a little bare, but don’t let that fool you. We promise you’ll still enjoy the full Texas wine experience—from tastings and behind-the-scenes tours to good conversation with local winemakers who’ll give you a real taste of what makes this region one of the world’s rising stars in wine. So come ready to sip, learn, and soak in the Hill Country hospitality, no matter the season.

The Farm & Ranch

Working on a Texas farm and ranch—especially in the summertime—sure can be a sweaty affair, with the heat and humidity rolling in strong from June through September. So, we kindly ask that you come prepared for the weather. Now don’t you worry—we’re not here to wear you out or throw you into anything grueling. You won’t be expected to do more than you’re comfortable with, and we’ll have plenty of cold water and snacks on hand to keep you feeling good. While you’re here, you’ll join your hosts for whatever the land calls for—whether it's feeding animals, fixing fences, planting or harvesting crops, or even wranglin’ cattle. No two days are ever quite the same out here. Our goal is to give you a true, hands-on feel for what life’s really like for a Texas farmer and rancher, but always at your pace. Don’t worry though, Texas farmers and ranchers don’t move very fast to begin with. Whether you’re pitching in with a task or just taking it all in from the shade, it’s your tour and your choice. Planting season usually runs from mid-February to late March, with harvest happening mid-May through early August. But no matter when you visit, we guarantee you’ll spend real time with a local farmer, swapping stories, learning the ropes, and soaking up the spirit of ranch life—even if the fields are already quiet.

Horseback Riding on the Ranch

The horses you’ll be riding on this tour aren’t just any horses—they’re seasoned pros with years of experience under their saddles. Most of ’em have spent their days in rodeo or wranglin’ cattle out on the ranch, so they know their way around folks. That said, they’re as gentle as a spring breeze and always happy to meet new riders. We’d never set you up with a wild horse or one that isn’t fully trained—your safety and comfort are our top priorities. So whether you’re a first-timer or an old hand, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hooves. Since this is an outdoor activity, horseback riding is weather-dependent—if Mother Nature decides otherwise, we’ll adjust plans with a comfortable and equally enjoyable alternative. But don’t worry, if riding horses is not your thing, you’re more than welcome to sit this one out and enjoy the 4-wheelers once more. This is your tour, and we’ll always honor your pace, your preferences, and the weather’s say-so.

Chuckwagon Dinner on the Range

As the day winds down, you’ll step back in time for an authentic chuckwagon dinner on the open Texas range. Your host—a lifelong cowboy, chef, and poet—will welcome you with the warmth of Old West hospitality as he serves up a hearty meal of steak, beans, biscuits, and cobbler, all cooked low and slow over an open fire. Expect rustic seating around the chuckwagon that sets the stage for a relaxed evening beneath the wide Texas sky, where the glow of sunset gives way to a canopy of stars. Between bites, you’ll be treated to cowboy poetry and ranch stories that capture the spirit of life on the range. Since this is a true outdoor experience, the chuckwagon dinner is weather-dependent—we’ll make every effort to proceed as planned, but if the forecast doesn’t cooperate, you’ll enjoy the same Texas flavors and cowboy hospitality in a cozy, covered setting nearby. Be prepared for rustic facilities, cooler evening temperatures, and, in warmer months, a few mosquitoes—layers and bug spray are recommended. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if shared in advance. More than just a meal, this slow-paced evening invites you to savor good food, good company, and the timeless magic of Texas under the stars.

Cowboy Church

Cowboy Church is a come-as-you-are, Jesus-centered gathering rooted in the heart of Texas’ western heritage. It’s a place where folks in boots and hats worship right alongside visitors from all walks of life—no dress code, no expectations, just genuine faith and warm hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or just passing through, you’ll be welcomed with open arms by a community that lives out their values with heart and humility.

Hunting & Shooting (optional)

Here in Texas, we believe in doing things the right way—especially when it comes to firearms. Before you ever lay a hand on a gun, we’ll walk you through a thorough safety briefing to make sure you feel confident and secure. Your safety is our top concern, and we don’t cut corners when it comes to handling firearms. Should you decide to join in on the hunt, you’ll likely be going after wild hogs—an invasive critter that tears up the land and gobbles up crops faster than you can say “barbecue.” But don’t worry, if hunting is not your thing, you’re more than welcome to stick to target shootin’ or sit this one out altogether. This is your tour, and we’ll always honor your pace and your preferences.

Departure Day

As your unforgettable Texas Tour comes to a close, how your final day unfolds will depend on your flight departure. If you have a late flight, you might get to sleep in and take the morning easy. If your flight is early, we will need to rise early and get on the road. We will plan accordingly, and when it’s time to head out, your Gardner Tours guide will escort you directly from your BnB to the airport. We’ll ensure you arrive 3–4 hours before your scheduled flight so you have plenty of time to check in, clear security and customs, and pick up any last-minute Texas souvenirs. Our goal is to make your departure just as smooth and stress-free as the rest of your journey.

Professional Photography + Edited Photos

Here at Gardner Tours, we take a lotta pride in capturing your adventure through professional photography—so you can put your phone down, soak in every moment, and truly enjoy the ride. In fact, offering photography came about thanks to one of our guests who told us, “Y’all take such great photos, I haven’t needed to take a single one. I’ve loved just being present.” That sure stuck with us, and now we make it part of every tour. As a friendly little trade, once you leave us a review on TripAdvisor, we’ll send you a link to download your edited tour photos—free of charge. It’s our way of saying thanks and helping you relive the memories, long after you’ve hung up your boots.

Our Guarantee to You

At Gardner Tours, we’re dedicated to providing you with an experience that’s as professional and polished as it is warm and welcoming. From start to finish, you can count on a thoughtfully planned journey that’s comprehensive, engaging, and full of local charm. If you have any questions or if there’s something you’d like to tweak to make this tour fit you even better, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to accommodate your requests and make sure your Texas adventure is exactly what you’re hoping for—and then some.